The Silent Service's First Hero

Main Themes and Topics

The Silent Service's First Hero by Ryan C Walker delves deeply into the early history of submarine service by exploring the life of Henry Breault, the first submariner to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. This book not only sheds light on Breault’s personal journey and achievements but also serves as a broader exploration of life aboard submarines in the early 20th century. The narrative traverses from Breault's childhood, through his enlistments in both the Royal Navy Canadian Volunteer Reserve and the United States Navy, highlighting themes of heroism, identity, and the intricate social fabrics of the military life during this period.

Walker’s work aligns the world of historical submariners with a new perspective, emphasizing the significance of analyzing lives through official military documents, census records, and personal interactions. By doing so, it provides an enriched understanding of the personal lives of enlisted men, their relationships, and how these factors influenced their service and conduct under the sea.

Writing Style and Tone

Ryan C Walker adopts an analytical yet accessible style in narrating the story of Henry Breault. His tone is respectful and meticulous, as he unravels the life of a military hero through detailed research and factual recounting. Walker’s approach is grounded in academic rigor while remaining engaging for readers who are new to this historical period or unfamiliar with military history. The book effectively balances personal anecdotes with broader historical contexts, making it both informative and compelling.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

The Silent Service's First Hero provides a thorough examination of Henry Breault’s life from 1900 to 1941. Through an in-depth reconstruction using a variety of historical documents, the book paints a vivid picture of Breault’s early life, his enlistment in two navies, and his experiences as a submariner. The narrative covers his engagements with friends and family, and presents insights into the challenges and conditions of living underwater during the pre-World War II era. This book is as much about Breault as it is about the evolution of submarine service and the uncelebrated lives of enlisted men who served silently and bravely.